How Long Can All-on-4® Dental Implants Last?

For patients in need of a full-arch restoration, dentures may be an option. However, many patients wonder whether there is an alternative to removable dentures that does not involve adhesives, glue, or the worry of their dentures becoming loose or falling out. For these men and women, our knowledgeable team at Dlight Dental in Rockville, MD, is proud to offer All-on-4 dental implants and restorations. With All-on-4 dental implants, patients can confidently regain the strong, functional smile they deserve. Here, we’ll answer some of the most common All-on-4 FAQs, including how long your newly restored smile may last and what you can do to maintain your implants and restorations over time.

What are my options for a full-arch restoration?

Patients who need to replace a full arch of teeth — which may be necessary because of damage, injury, severe decay, or another factor — have several options, thanks to modern restorative dentistry. While dentures are one choice, many patients do not want to deal with the hassle and uncertainty that comes with traditional removable dentures requiring adhesives. Another option is replacing each missing tooth with a dental implant and single restoration, but some patients may not have adequate bone density for this approach. One of the most popular and effective solutions for replacing one or both full arches in the mouth is All-on-4 dental implants, which we proudly offer at Dlight Dental.

How do All-on-4 implants work?

The process of placing All-on-4 dental implants involves surgically inserting four dental implants — or screws — into the patient’s jawbone. Over a period of about six months, the implants will integrate with the bone, providing a structurally sound base. Custom dentures or restorations are then attached to these four screws, leaving the patient with a beautiful, seamless, and functional smile. With All-on-4 dental implants vs. dentures, there is no worry about dentures coming loose or falling out, giving patients the confidence they deserve while laughing, eating, talking, and smiling.

How long do All-on-4 implants last?

With proper care, hygiene, maintenance, and healthy habits, All-on-4 dental implants and dentures can last for 20 years or longer. In some cases, All-on-4 dental implants can last a lifetime. While the implants themselves usually do not require replacement, the dentures or restorations attached to the implants may become damaged or worn over several years or decades and can be replaced or repaired.

How can I care for my All-on-4 dentures?

To maintain your All-on-4 restorations for as long as possible, be sure to do the following:

• Adhere to a proper at-home dental and oral hygiene routine, including twice daily brushing
• Avoid hard, crunchy, gummy, and sticky foods
• Do not bite your nails or use your teeth to open/cut things
• Do not smoke
• Wear a protective sports mouth guard and/or night guard as recommended
• Maintain your bi-yearly dental visits for exams and cleanings

Restore your smile with confidence using All-on-4 dental implants in Rockville, MD

Have you considered dentures or full-mouth restoration with implants but have compromised bone density or simply prefer a less extensive approach? If so, you may be excited to learn more about All-on-4 dental implants. Take the first step toward finding out if All-on-4 dental implants are right for you by calling Dlight Dental to schedule your private consultation with one of our leading Rockville, MD, dentists today.